Due to its growing financial troubles, SpiceJet has decided to temporarily place 150 cabin crew members on furlough for three months. The airline released a statement on Thursday to announce this step and said they had to take this decision to “ensure long-term stability of the airline.” That’s not all, aviation regulator DGCA also placed the airline under enhanced surveillance again on Thursday, adding to their growing crisis.
SpiceJet Sends 150 Cabin Crew On Leave For 3 Months Without Pay
Low-budget carrier SpiceJet has decided to furlough 150 cabin crew members for three months, the airline announced on Thursday. This means they will send them on a three-month leave without pay. This decision comes after the airline has found itself amid growing financial and legal woes. As per a Business Standard report, the airline has been making losses for the last six years. Reportedly, the cash-strapped carrier is now finding it difficult to pay employee salaries.
As per SpiceJet’s statement, the airline has taken this step “in response to the current lean travel season and the reduced fleet size, with the long-term stability of the organisation in mind.” The airline has ensured that these cabin crew members will “continue to retain their status as employees of SpiceJet, with all health benefits and earned leave intact.”
As per reports, due to financial, legal, and lessor woes, SpiceJet has reduced the number of planes in its fleet. They are now operating around 22 aircraft and are looking to raise funds to boost its finances.
DGCA Again Placed The Airline Under Enhanced Surveillance
Earlier on Thursday, aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) again placed SpiceJet under enhanced surveillance with immediate effect. As per a Hindustan Times report, this step comes after reports of the airline facing issues at Dubai airport and Mumbai airport.
It is to be noted that this is not the first time that SpiceJet has been put under surveillance. Back in 2022, DGCA had restricted the operations of SpiceJet as well. This was during post COVID-19 when the government had allowed limited flights to operate and also had fare caps.
DGCA’s order does not have any direct impact on operations. However, there are chances that the regulator could decide to ground additional aircraft for checks or any discrepancies in the future. So, passengers who have booked tickets with SpiceJet should check with the airline on the status of their flight.
Also Read: SpiceJet Flights From Dubai To Several Destinations In India Cancelled Leaving Passengers Stranded
We hope that SpiceJet is able to survive these crises and continue to provide its services to the people!
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia
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